Fighting forest fires in Italy: EU solidarity in action

/echo/file/fighting-forest-fires-italy-eu-s-solidarity-action_enFighting forest fires in Italy: the EU’s solidarity in action

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Every year, devastating fires destroy thousands of hectares of forests in Europe. Although southern European countries are particularly at risk, no country is immune.

When national capacities to respond to forest fires are surpassed, the European Union's Civil Protection Mechanism can be activated to provide a coordinated multinational response. European countries often show solidarity by deploying water-bombing aircrafts, helicopters, fire-fighting equipment, and personnel.

The 2017 forest fire season was one of the most severe of the last decade. The Commission's Emergency response Coordination Centre monitored the forest fire risk incidence on a daily basis and was in regular contact with national civil protection authorities to exchange information and coordinate the delivery of assistance.